Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

Lantana camara, green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), multidrug resistance.

Abstract

As traditional antibiotics lose effectiveness, multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria such as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Enterococcus faecalis pose serious public health concerns. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has emerged as a sustainable antimicrobial approach, offering reduced toxicity compared to chemical synthesis. While Lantana camara is known for containing phytochemicals suitable for nanoparticle formation, few studies have explored the morphology and antibacterial activity of its AgNPs against clinically relevant Gram-positive infections. This study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles using L. camara leaf extract, characterize their morphology, and evaluate their antibacterial activity against MRSA, S. epidermidis, and E. faecalis. AgNPs were produced through a green synthesis method and characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). Antibacterial activity at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% was tested through the disc diffusion method, with Vancomycin, Ciprofloxacin, and Oxacillin serving as our positive controls. SEM analysis revealed irregular, shard-like AgNPs with a broad size distribution ranging from 55 to 328 nm, while EDX confirmed the presence of silver along with plant-derived elements. However, statistical analysis indicated no significant differences among concentrations. Moreover, the inhibition zones produced by AgNPs remained smaller than those produced by standard antibiotics. These results suggest that while L. camara-derived AgNPs possess antibacterial activity, they are less effective than traditional antibiotics. Further research is necessary to improve their antibacterial efficacy. L. camara-derived AgNPs may be more suitable when used in combination with antibiotics rather than as a stand alone treatment to combat multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria.

First Advisor

Ramgie M. Bartolata, LPT

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